Diaper Need: It’s Time for a Change in Practice and Policy

Abstract

Over one-third of families in the United States experience diaper need, negatively affecting the health and developmental outcomes of young children. Research has shown that when providers recognize the importance of addressing the social determinants of health (SDOH), including diaper need, critical support is provided to children and families. Early intervention (EI) providers work collaboratively with families to address goals for their children, including SDOH. Through longitudinal partnerships with families, EI providers are ideally positioned to address disparities like diaper need and provide essential supports to families. When diaper need affects children with developmental delays and disabilities, the disparities are often exacerbated due to the extended length of time that may be required for the child to wear diapers. EI providers can address this need by increasing awareness of this issue, connecting families to resources, and advocating for policy changes to effectively address diaper need and optimize outcomes for children.